The Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday granted former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and his son, Abdulaziz, bail of N200 million each in a case involving alleged terrorism financing and unlawful possession of firearms.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, ruling on their separate bail applications, said the purpose of bail is to ensure that defendants appear for trial. She ordered two sureties for each defendant, with one required to own a developed property in Maitama or Asokoro, Abuja, and submit the title deed to the Deputy Chief Registrar. Sureties must also depose to affidavits of means and provide recent passport photographs. Malami and his son were instructed to deposit their passports and passport photographs with the court.
The judge directed that the defendants remain in Kuje Correctional Centre until their bail conditions are perfected, and adjourned the case to March 4 for the commencement of trial.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had arraigned the father and son on a five-count charge, including terrorism financing, conduct preparatory to terrorism, and illegal possession of firearms. Both had previously pleaded not guilty.
At Friday’s hearing, J.B. Daudu (SAN) represented the defendants, seeking bail on liberal terms, while A.U. Igwe appeared for the prosecution, which informed the court that the case file had been forwarded to the Department of Public Prosecution.
The DSS alleged that Malami, while serving as AGF and Minister of Justice in November 2022, failed to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers. It further claimed that in December 2025, Malami and his son unlawfully possessed a Sturm Magnum 17-0101 firearm, 16 Redstar AAA live rounds, and 27 expended cartridges at their residence in Gesse Phase II, Birnin Kebbi LGA, Kebbi State.
The offences, according to the prosecution, violate the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and the Firearms Act, 2004.
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